How January 6 Became Playtime in London and Beyond

July 17, 2025

The article examines how the January 6, 2021 Capitol insurrection has evolved into a cultural industry spanning documentaries, books, games, and theatrical performances. It specifically highlights "Fight for America! " - an interactive London theater experience where audiences reenact the insurrection by choosing sides and even voting whether to "hang" Vice President Pence.

Who is affected

American society and democratic institutions
Audiences of various January 6-themed media and performances
London theatergoers who participate in the "Fight for America!" experience
Former Vice President Mike Pence (symbolically)
Police officers and others traumatized by the actual insurrection
The 14 January 6 defendants not granted clemency by Trump

What action is being taken

"Fight for America!" is currently being performed in London's West End as an interactive theater experience
Various media companies are producing documentaries, books, and other content about January 6
Creators Christopher McElroen and Neal Wilkinson are planning to bring "Fight for America!" to Washington D.C. in January 2026
Entertainment companies are developing board games, art installations, and plays based on the insurrection
Audiences in London are participating in and voting during these interactive performances

Why it matters

The commercialization of January 6 raises questions about how societies should process attempted coups
These entertainment products potentially trivialize a serious attack on American democracy
The audience's willingness to vote for violence (18 of 24 London audiences voted to "hang" Pence) reveals concerning social dynamics
The creators claim these works foster reflection on polarization and democracy, though critics question if they merely capitalize on tragedy
The timing of the D.C. production coincides with Trump's return to power and his clemency decisions for insurrectionists

What's next

A Washington, D.C. run of "Fight for America!" is planned for January 2026 to mark the fifth anniversary of the attack

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint